- Beka D.
- Monday, May 20
“Owl," said Rabbit shortly, "you and I have brains. The others have fluff. If there is any thinking to be done in this Forest--and when I say thinking I mean thinking--you and I must do it.”
― A. A. Milne, The House at Pooh Corner (1928)
Owls have fascinated humans for millennia. Because of their nocturnal nature and ominous hooting sounds, owls have sometimes been seen as ill omens. However, in some cultures, owls are seen as protectors and instead bring good luck.
Today, in the United States, owls are probably most well-known for being very wise. With their big, round eyes and silent movements, owls are some of the best hunters in the world. They are good at what they do, but owl experts say that the animals are usually very stubborn when it comes to learning new things.
This has not stopped the owl from maintaining its intelligent reputation. In Ancient Greek mythology, Athena, the goddess of the wisdom, is often depicted with the owl. The owl was the guardian of the Acropolis of Athens, an ancient Greek fortification and sacred site dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city.
Today, owls continue to represent wisdom in popular culture as represented in the slideshow and video below.
Naturally, libraries have adopted the owl to symbolize places of learning and knowledge. The Los Angeles Public Library’s blog highlights the owlish work of sculptor Lee Lawrie at the Central library. Likewise, the Harold Washington Library Center in Chicago boasts four barn owl statues surrounded by leaves and seed pods, symbols of growth and wisdom. Additionally, a great horned clutches an open book in its talons, a striking representation of the owl as a symbol of knowledge and learning.
Learn more about these fascinating creatures by visiting the Owl Research Institute website, watching an owl livestream from British wildlife artist and YouTuber Robert E. Fuller, or checking out a book from the list below!